Deputy Commissioner for Support Services John Benanti, DCAS Commissioner Edna Wells Handy, GreeNYC mascot Birdie and FDNY fire safety mascot Hot Dog visited Engine 258/Ladder 115 in Queens on March 15, to honor the firehouse for being the most energy efficient unit in New York City.

“The FDNY has a commitment to lower our impact on the environment and all of our members take pride in doing their part,” Deputy Commissioner Benanti said.

The winning firehouses in each borough and the top EMS unit were awarded an Energy Star certified LED television.

FDNY Deputy Commissioner John Benanti and DCAS Commissioner Edna Wells Handy congratulate members of the firehouse after the ceremony, including Capt. Michael Barvels (white hat).

“This event underscores the partnership between DCAS and the FDNY,” Commissioner Wells Handy said. “We can see gains at this individual level as much as we can see them on larger projects.”

The FDNY is one of the seven largest New York City agencies to adhere to an energy budget created on the previous fiscal year. Citywide, FDNY reduced overall energy costs by $683,254 in 2012 with reduced energy usage totaling 178 kilowatt hours.

Capt. Michael Barvels, Ladder 115, credited FDNY Support Services for improvements made on the firehouse, such as lights that automatically turn off when they respond to a call.

“What [firefighters] and Support Services have done is really making a difference,” he said.